The UK government launched the Northern Ireland Defence Growth Deal, investing £50 million in the defence sector. Defence Minister Luke Pollard and Northern Ireland Office Minister Matthew Patrick attended the event at Belfast Met College.

The funding targets tech companies, start-ups and small and medium-sized enterprises to join the defence supply chain. It includes a Secure Innovation Hub for research and development and skills training with universities and colleges in engineering and technology. Officials expect hundreds of jobs from the deal.

First Minister Michelle O'Neill did not attend the launch. She stated the funds could support other priorities over defence. O'Neill said she wants to create employment as part of economic policy but prefers different investment choices.

Economy Minister Caoimhe Archibald also missed the event. Her department sent senior officials and Invest NI representatives. DUP MLA Phillip Brett attended as deputy first minister.

Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn said attendance is a decision for the first minister. He noted the investment goes to skills, apprenticeships and SME access to defence work. Benn cited shipbuilding at Harland and Wolff for three Royal Navy support ships as an example of job opportunities.

Benn stated government funds Northern Ireland above its assessed needs at £1.24 per pound spent in England. He mentioned a record three-year settlement last summer, plus extra £370 million in the budget and £228 million in the Spring Statement.

O'Neill challenged a Treasury report on Stormont finances after a £400 million overspend last year. She said Northern Ireland receives less funding relative to needs than Wales or Scotland.